Jesus’ journey through trouble leads to salvation and a future place of peace for His followers. The disciples’ betrayal (Judas), forthcoming denials (Peter), and fear gather around them but Jesus offers hope.
(John 13:18-14:4)
SERMON OUTLINE
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.” (John 14:1)
The Trouble of Betrayal (John 13:18-30)
- Judas and divided loyalties
- Judas and spiritual conflict
The Trouble of Failure (John 13:31-38)
- Peter and confusion
- Peter and brash declarations
Trouble and Jesus (John 14:1-4)
- The pathway to glory (13:31-33)
- The provision of God (14:2-4)
- The reality of Jesus (14:1)
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- When did you face deep troubles in your life? What happened and how did you deal with them?
- We continue our series, “Chosen Words,” by studying John 13:18-14:4, where Jesus faces into deep troubles. Before you read those verses aloud, take a moment to ask God to speak to you as you read His word.
- The first section of this passage, verses 18-30, focuses largely on Jesus’ expectation of betrayal at the hands of Judas. Judas is mentioned five times in John 13 (vss 2, 26, 27, 29, 30). What do you notice about Judas from these verses?
- Jesus clearly knows that someone will betray Him (vs 21), but it also appears that this is part of God’s plan (vss 18-19). How could these both possibly be true?
- In the second section of this passage, verses 31-38, how would you summarize Jesus’ description of what He will face next? What do you think this means?
- In verses 34 and 35, Jesus offers “a new command.” Although this may be familiar, what do you think it means practically to fulfill this command? Why do you think there is a direct connection between this command and identification of Jesus’ disciples?
- Jesus confronts Simon Peter’s bold declaration with a hard truth about his upcoming failure. Why do you think Jesus said this to Peter?
- When do you think it is the loving thing to do to confront someone with a hard truth?
- The third section is found in 14:1-4. Here, Jesus balances words about His departure (13:31-33) with the reassuring work of God. What does Jesus promise to His followers?
- How do Jesus’ words here help your perspective on the challenges of your own life or the global events unfolding around us?
- What is one specific thing that God is speaking to you about life with Him through this study? How will that shape your life in the next week? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and pray for one another. If you are studying on your own, write it down and share it with someone.